Related Breaking News

l With 55% of U.S. households owning one or more pets, consumer expenditures neared $30 billion on pet-related products and services in 2002, according to Unity Marketing’s study, “Why People Buy Things for Their Pets.”
Of that total, $18 billion comprised pet foods and supplies, while $12 billion went toward veterinary services.
“As consumers lavish spending on their pets, increasing amounts are allocated to special services like exercise, pet sitting, grooming, even spa services,” said Pam Danziger, president, Unity Marketing and author of Why People Buy Things They Don’t Need.
The report analyzed both necessity purchases (food, leashes, collars, litter, cages and crates) and “extras” (toys, bath and grooming products, dining bowls, vitamins, furniture, beds, gifts, travel accessories and wearables). More than 80% of U.S. pet owners bought one or more “extras” in the past year, the study revealed.